Jompy Stove leads charge of EA brigade in World Challenge

A Kenyan stove used in cooking and sterilising water and a project for charging lights with batteries from Rwanda, are among the 12 finalists in the 2010 World Challenge.

Called the Jompy Stove and produced under the Double-Boiled project, this lightweight and inexpensive stove-top device sits between a cooking pot and an open flame to rapidly boil water.

This simple technology could save millions who die from drinking contaminated water.

The “Charge of the Light Brigade” project by Equinox in Rwanda ­ offers a solution to rural villages left in the dark.

The firm behind the innovation has set up its first solar energy kiosk in Gakenke district in Rwanda.

Sealed battery boxes are on constant charge rotation, when the lights dim, villagers can come and swap their box for a fresh one.

From Tanzania came “OK Coral” project by Chumbe Island Coral Park.

It involves local fishermen providing sustainable employment opportunities based on a protection model that pays its way.

The evidence is a string of pristine coral islands that provide refuge for 400 fish species.

In addition, several solar powered eco-lodges host tourists.

According to the organisers of the World Challenge, entries from Denmark, Guatemala, India, Madagascar, Malawi, Mexico, Peru, and Philippines, made it to the final.

Now in its sixth year, the competition is run by BBC World News and Newsweek magazine, in association with Shell.

The World Challenge is a global competition seeking to highlight and reward small businesses around the world that demonstrate enterprise and innovation.

Launched in 2005, the annual competition aims to identify and reward people and businesses bringing economic, social and environmental benefits to local communities through innovation and enterprise at a grassroots level. 

Since its inception, World Challenge has awarded financial grants to 15 projects across the globe.